About Walnut Creek Watershed

The Walnut Creek Watershed stretches 83 square-miles across Polk and Dallas counties, divided nearly evenly across rural and urban areas. Following a decade where more than six square miles of watershed developed into urban land uses, Walnut Creek continues to be one of the fastest urbanizing areas in Iowa.As the watershed has changed so have the environmental conditions.


Flooding, nutrient loading, bacteria and eroded soils impact public health, reduce habitat and undermine the ability of Walnut Creek to serve as a Central Iowa amenity. Walnut Creek flows into the Racoon River less than a mile from the Des Moines Water Works’ intake for a public water supply serving nearly one-half million users. Walnut Creek is a priority area to focus restoration efforts. The Walnut Creek Watershed Management Authority is working to collaboratively address watershed issues.

FUTURE TIMELINE SECTION

Watershed Areas of Focus

To address watershed issues, you must first understand what is happening within the watershed and creek. Key elements to understand include:

Watershed Geography

Needs Description

Learn More

Climate and Streamflow

Needs Description

Learn More

Characteristics of the Stream

Needs Description

Learn More

Key Pollutants and Sources

Needs Description

Learn More

Documents

Our document's section is comprised of Monthly Meeting Notes, which can be downloaded at your convenience. Never worry about missing a meeting, our team will upload meeting notes.

Monthly Updates

Meeting Notes

Below Are Archived Walnut Creek Meeting Notes & Agenda

Annual streamflow in Walnut Creek has increased 37% since 1982